ZorkFest Recap

Dec 19, 2025

Join the hosts as they tackle significant travel news, including unexpected Mesa card shutdowns and changes to the Ritz-Carlton lounge policy. Explore JetBlue’s exclusive new lounge and possible transfer devaluations with Cathay Pacific. Dive into ZorkFest highlights, featuring hands-on learning with experts, small-group labs, and strategies for maximizing rewards in travel and casino settings. Plus, get personal trip updates and insights on the value of co-branded cards. This recap reveals the ultimate blend of travel rewards and gaming enjoyment!

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ADVICE

Adjust To Lounge Policy Changes

Note lounge access policy changes and adapt your cards accordingly.
If you need more guest access, add authorized users or consider cards with broader lounge guest policies.

INSIGHT

Transfer Ratios Are Shifting

Transfer partner ratios are changing and programs are devaluing transfer rates.
Reduced transfer ratios (e.g., 1:0.8) effectively increase redemption costs and erode sweet spots.

ADVICE

Do Your Year-End Checklist

Run a year-end checklist now to use expiring credits and meet spend thresholds.
Maximize point transfers, buy limits, and annual credits before they reset in January.

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Episode 151 of the Award Travel 101 podcast, hosted by Angie Sparks and Joseph Petrovic, covers a wide range of travel and points news before diving into a full recap of ZorkFest. In the news segment, the hosts discuss Mesa unexpectedly shutting down accounts, changes to the Ritz-Carlton card’s lounge guest policy, JetBlue’s new Terminal 5 lounge with very limited access, and concerns around a Cathay Pacific transfer devaluation from Amex Membership Rewards. They also highlight year-end checklist reminders, such as expiring credits, point pooling, and spending thresholds. Angie and Joe share recent bonuses, card closures, and points earned, along with detailed trip updates involving Vegas, Japan, Orlando, Phoenix, and upcoming meetups.

The main topic centers on ZorkFest, a unique event that blends traditional travel rewards with casino loyalty programs. Held at the M Resort in Henderson, Nevada, ZorkFest attracts attendees interested in high expected value opportunities, cost-effective stays (including bookings with Choice points), and hands-on learning through labs and live gaming experiences with experts. Both Angie and Joe recount their flights, hotel experiences, and why the event stands out: strong presenters, opportunities for new players, and a focus on maximizing rewards across both travel and casino ecosystems. The hosts note that the event just wrapped up and is likely to return next year.

The episode wraps with miscellaneous trip highlights, community connections, and a “Tip of the Week” emphasizing adaptability. Joe stresses that points and miles opportunities are constantly changing, with earning avenues and redemption paths frequently disappearing. The key takeaway is to stay flexible, plan ahead, and be ready to pivot strategies as programs evolve—an especially timely reminder given the rapid changes discussed throughout the episode.

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Reserve tickets to our Spring 2026 Meetup in Phoenix now. award.travel/phx2026

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